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Tuesday, July 3, 2012

The Difference Between Humility and Insecurity - And Which Will Lead to Success

Insecurity says your writing is awful. Humility says there's still work to be done.

Insecurity tells you everyone else is much better than you. Humility tells you that with the right focus, one day you could be that good.

Insecurity wants you to believe criticism is a personal attack and should be defended. Humility understands another pair of eyes might catch something you don't, so considers any feedback.

Insecurity gets jealous of other people's success. Humility cheers and sets a goal.

Insecurity says what's the point of revising again? Humility says, if I just keep working, one day it will get there.

Insecurity is scared to fail, so fails to try. Humility accepts failure as a risk because success might follow.

Insecurity is bruised by seeking out advice because it means others are better, stronger or more successful, and that's hard. Humility avidly seeks advice because others are better, stronger or more successful, so maybe they know something useful.

Insecurity despairs and gives up. Humility perserveres.

Which do you think is most likely to lead you to success?

Your Turn: How do you turn insecurity into humility? What are the hardest obstacles to overcome?

Well said. I'd like to think I'm always filled with humility when it comes to my writing, but insecurity can sneak up on you if you aren't vigilant. Thanks for the reminder of what makes a writer succeed.